Romans 8:7

Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

Because {G1360} the carnal {G4561} mind {G5427} is enmity {G2189} against {G1519} God {G2316}: for {G1063} it is {G5293} not {G3756} subject {G5293} to the law {G3551} of God {G2316}, neither {G3761} indeed {G1063} can be {G1410}.

For the mind controlled by the old nature is hostile to God, because it does not submit itself to God’s Torah — indeed, it cannot.

because the mind of the flesh is hostile to God: It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.

because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be:

Commentary

Romans 8:7 profoundly reveals the deep-seated opposition of the unregenerate human nature to God. It states that the "carnal mind" — a way of thinking dominated by the flesh and human desires apart from divine influence — is not merely indifferent but actively hostile ("enmity") towards God. This mind is inherently incapable of submitting to God's law, highlighting the complete spiritual inability of humanity without transformation.

Context

This verse is a crucial part of Paul's extended discourse in Romans 8, where he contrasts life "in the flesh" with life "in the Spirit." Immediately preceding this verse, Paul declares that "to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace" (Romans 8:6). Romans 8:7 explains *why* the carnal mind leads to death: because it is fundamentally at odds with God and His righteous standards. This passage sets the stage for understanding the necessity of the Holy Spirit's indwelling for true spiritual life and obedience.

Key Themes

  • The Nature of the Carnal Mind: The "carnal mind" (or "fleshly mind") describes the human intellect, will, and affections as they operate independently of God's Spirit. It represents the natural, fallen human disposition, which is inherently self-centered and rebellious against divine authority.
  • Inherent Hostility Towards God: The verse states this mind "is enmity against God." This is not a passive disinterest but an active, deep-seated hostility and opposition. It signifies a state of being an enemy, a profound spiritual alienation from the Creator. This inherent opposition is a core aspect of humanity's fallen condition.
  • Inability to Obey God's Law: The carnal mind "is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be." This emphasizes a complete inability, not just unwillingness, to submit to or truly obey God's commands. It highlights that the natural human will, left to itself, cannot align with God's perfect will or righteous standards. This spiritual incapacity underscores the need for divine intervention and the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit for genuine obedience and reconciliation.

Linguistic Insights

  • The phrase "carnal mind" translates the Greek phronema sarcos (φρόνημα τῆς σαρκός), which literally means "the mindset of the flesh" or "the disposition of the flesh." It refers to the thoughts, intentions, and attitudes that spring from humanity's fallen nature.
  • The word "enmity" comes from the Greek echthra (ἔχθρα), signifying hostility, hatred, or antagonism. It conveys a strong sense of being an adversary or enemy.

Practical Application

Romans 8:7 serves as a stark reminder of the human condition apart from Christ. It explains why spiritual transformation is essential: our natural inclination is not neutral but actively opposed to God. For those who are in Christ, this verse underscores the radical change brought about by the Holy Spirit, who enables us to walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit. It also helps us understand the ongoing spiritual battle within believers, as the remnants of the flesh continue to war against the Spirit (Galatians 5:17). Ultimately, it magnifies God's immense grace that He would reconcile us to Himself through Christ, even while we were His enemies (Romans 5:8), offering a new mind and a new heart capable of submitting to His will.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 2:14 (30 votes)

    But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.

  • 1 John 2:15 (23 votes)

    Love not the world, neither the things [that are] in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

  • 1 John 2:16 (23 votes)

    For all that [is] in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

  • James 4:4 (21 votes)

    Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

  • Ephesians 4:18 (15 votes)

    Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

  • Ephesians 4:19 (15 votes)

    Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

  • Romans 7:22 (13 votes)

    For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: